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Curriculum

Each of the laboratories in the Division of Laboratory Genetics at Mayo Clinic provides testing for a wide range of genetic disorders. In addition, the Molecular Genetics Laboratory and the Cytogenetics Laboratory offer numerous tests in the areas of hematology and oncology. Test volumes in each laboratory are large and are rapidly increasing. There will be numerous case conferences and many interactions with consultants in other laboratories and clinical departments (e.g. Experimental Pathology, Hematology, Hematopathology, Medical Genetics, Neurology and Pediatrics).

Clinical Experience

Case work will involve working closely with board certified molecular geneticists and genetic counselors. Your experience will include:

Collection of appropriate clinical and pedigree information from the referring clinician

Review of technical work performed

Scoring and interpretation of results

Performing risk calculations

Generation of the test report

Subsequent follow-up with the referring clinician

Didactic Training

Didactic training will be provided by formal lectures, case conferences, seminars and journal reviews. Additionally, enrollment in Mayo Graduate School courses may be required, depending upon your previous training and experience.

For certification by the American Board of Medical Genetics (ABMG) in clinical molecular genetics, clinical cytogenetics, or clinical biochemical genetics, a general genetics examination together with the specialty examination must be taken. Our fellowship programs provide the required training in all aspects of medical genetics (i.e. clinical genetics, molecular genetics, cytogenetics, biochemical genetics and genetic counseling). The training program will encompass a broad range of topics and expertise, including:

Practical Laboratory Experience

Each genetics laboratory is fully equipped for diagnostic and research work. You will have ample opportunity for involvement in research projects and/or the development of new clinical tests. In addition, you will review quality control and quality assurance procedures, and participate in preparing the laboratory for certification inspections by on-site reviewers from College of American Pathologists (CAP) and New York State .

Research Training

Clinical testing at Mayo Clinic benefits from active research and development programs. Developmental activities in the Division of Laboratory Genetics are focused on improving current test strategies and introducing new genetic tests. All approved tests meet rigid validation standards that include a thorough evaluation of methodology and clinical utility.

Our research programs combine the expertise and experience of Mayo Clinic scientists to advance the field of genetics and genetic testing.

Call Frequency

Your call schedule will vary by individual rotation within each fellowship. Mayo Clinic follows the recommendations of the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education.

Teaching Opportunities

In all of Mayo Clinic's genetic fellowships, you will have the opportunity to teach Mayo Medical School students, pathology residents and visiting students from other medical schools through bench instruction and formal didactic lectures.

Evaluation

To ensure that you acquire adequate knowledge and develop your technical skills, your performance will be monitored carefully during the course of your fellowship. You will be evaluated formally by your supervising faculty member after each quarter. In addition, you will regularly evaluate the faculty to ensure that your educational needs are being met.